I just want to kill them all and let God sort it out
No, the new domain name hasn't gone through yet, even though I was PROMISED last time that it would go through by now. Yes, I had to call again, even though I was PROMISED last time that that would be my last phone call. We're at the juvenile finger-pointing stage, which is always extra-delightful with tech people because they do it by throwing around a lot of nonsensical jargon, which all basically translates as "It's not my fault! Those other people are crazy, and it's their fault! Boo-hoo!"
Here's how it's going to work: If I don't have a useable domain name by the end of next week, I'll switch registrars.
The domain name finally went through--today as promised, but only if you live on the West Coast. The mapping should kick in soon (fingers crossed). Just glad it's over with--phrases like "No good deed goes unpunished" kept flashing through my mind.
I guess the lesson from this is to avoid buying a domain name if at all possible. It's not just more expensive, it's also twelve times the hassle!